Watertight hatch

[waterside]

I launched my Bolger Light Schooner last fall and quickly confirmed the fact that I need more than just under-deck floatation to be able to bail out after a capsize. (Don't ask how I found this out... smile.gif )

Has anybody seen any building plans for a simple and effective watertight access hatch, along the lines of the plastic things Bomar makes? I'm looking for something that will let me close up the storage compartments for floatation, but still allow easy access to the storage space.

Thanks,

Bill

http://waters.to/sail/launch/tn/Img2004_10_24_1321.med.jpg (http://waters.to/sail)

[ssor]

I made one for my anchor locker. It is dogged at six points around, so it is not a place to sit. I cut a round hole and saved the cutout piece laminated a piece 2 inches in dia. larger on top and applied automotive EDPM gasket at the nip. A couple of cleats across the top allowed hinges to sit in line. The dogs run up on short wedges so are self tightening.

[tidmarsh]

Originally posted by waterside:
Has anybody seen any building plans for a simple and effective watertight access hatch, along the lines of the plastic things Bomar makes? I'm looking for something that will let me close up the storage compartments for floatation, but still allow easy access to the storage space.
Here's Jim Michalak's essay on hatches:
Hatches and Vents (http://marina.fortunecity.com/breakwater/274/2000/1101/index.htm#HATCHES%20AND%20VENTS)

[South Shore Boatworks]

I have successfully made wooden watertight access hatches that are gasketed and easy to open by using the cam/ dog components of plastic hatches.I counterbore the wood hatch then set the mechanism in place. It is reliable, looks good, and is easy to use.

[JimJ]

I have successfully made wooden watertight access hatches that are gasketed and easy to open by using the cam/ dog components of plastic hatches.I counterbore the wood hatch then set the mechanism in place. It is reliable, looks good, and is easy to use. Any chances of a photographic example?

[Steve Lansdowne]

Third time I've posted this shot in the last 10 minutes. Many folks seem to be asking about hatches.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid152/pe14b84e1f554e00783c3b91e2ad247aa/f5b20365.jpg

[JimJ]

I was wondering if Mr South Shore Boatworks could post a photo if possible.

[waterside]

Nice work, Steve. I'm considering something similar, but I'm concerned that I might need more secure closure than a bungee cord -- my hatches are in a vertical orientation, and are likely to be below the waterline when the boat is on its side...

South Shore Boatworks -- do you buy plastic hatches & pull them apart for parts, or do you have a source for the hardware components separately?